System and method for intelligent casino configuration

ABSTRACT

Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for adaptable control and configuration in a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment. Systems and methods allow hypothetical or trial reconfiguration of a gaming floor and analysis of game performance. Systems and methods also monitor game play and provide one or more recommendations to a player and/or gaming terminal. Multi-site and local progressives may be provided for play via a downloadable and/or server-based gaming system. Tournament game play may be facilitated via the downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to, and is a continuation of,co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 11/938,100 having a filing date ofNov. 9, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference, and whichrelates to, and claims priority from, as a continuation-in-part ofco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/459,232, filed on Jul.21, 2006, entitled “System and Method for Intelligent CasinoConfiguration,”, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 60/701,731, filed on Jul. 22, 2005, entitled “System and Method forIntelligent Casino Configuration,” which are herein incorporated byreference in their entirety. The present application also relates to,and claims priority from, U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/865,289,filed on Nov. 10, 2006, entitled “Systems and Methods for Casino FloorOptimization in a Downloadable or Server Based Gaming Environment;” U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/865,285, filed on Nov. 10, 2006, entitled“Casino Download System and Method Including Player Choice;” U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/865,290, filed on Nov. 10, 2006, entitled“Download Systems and Methods for Multi-Site or Local ProgressiveGames;” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/865,280, filed on Nov.10, 2006, entitled “Systems and Methods for Providing Tournament Play ina Casino Downloadable/Server Based Gaming Environment,” which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to casino configuration and management, and moreparticularly relates to a system and method for dynamic or predeterminedcasino configuration and management.

Gaming machines, such as slot machines, fruit machines, or pokermachines, have in recent years become one of the more popular, exciting,and sophisticated wagering activities available at casinos and othergambling locations. At the same time, gaming machines have also become asource of greater revenue for gaming establishments. Thus, competitionbetween manufacturers of gaming machines has intensified as competitorsvie for business from gaming establishments.

A large gaming casino typically employs thousands of gaming machinesthat can be operated simultaneously. A gaming system providingentertaining and enticing features for players would be highly desirableto attract both new and returning players to a gaming establishment.Additionally, a gaming system that allows customization and dynamic orpredetermined modification by an operator would be highly desirable toprovide new features to customers. Current gaming machines are difficultto reconfigure and offer the same game to multiple users at multiplegaming establishments. Certain games may become old or unattractive toplayers and need updating or replacing. Thus, an improved system andmethod for reconfiguring gaming machines would be highly desirable.

Additionally, manual reconfiguration of a gaming machine by a humanoperator raises concerns regarding security of data and integrity of agame on the gaming machine. That is, gaming establishments and legalauthorities place high priority on the integrity of a game, such as aslot or poker game. Thus, there is a need for a configurable system thatdoes not disturb sensitive game or prize data and reduces possibilityfor human error in gaming configuration. Manual configuration may not beeffective to match the desires of players for game content, denomination($0.01, $0.25, $0.50, $1.00, $5.00 for example) appearance oroperational mode. Operational mode may include configuring terminals fortournament play (e.g., free play by the participants of the tournamentusing the same starting stake of free credits), promotional games, testgames or the like. To acquire and manually change out or convert to newgames with a conversion kit (signage, processor boards, button pads,etc.) requires significant time and manpower. Thus such systems are notwell suited to dynamically change to optimize the business operation ofthe casino, e.g. profits from the floor in response to the market andplayer demands.

Currently, casino floors include a wide variety of electronic gamingmachines, such as video slot machines, poker machines, reel slotmachines and other gaming machines. In order to adapt to changingsituations and improve slot play, slot managers adjust the location andconfiguration of these gaming machines. Physical placement of games onthe casino floor as well as manipulation of working parameters of thegames on the casino floor is an important aspect of casino management.

Determining an “ideal mix” of game types, locations, denominations, andother parameters is widely regarded as an art or inexact science. A mixor configuration of games may vary from venue to venue, day to day,and/or hour to hour, for example. Thus, an ability to rapidly adjust acasino floor configuration (in whole or in part) would be highlydesirable. A system that monitors configuration changes as well asplayer response to configuration changes would be highly desirable.Additionally, a system that may automatically change floor configurationon a periodic basis based on predefined parameters or detected playpatterns on the gaming floor would be highly desirable. The historicaldata obtained versus various configurations would be useful to helpoperators make decisions as to gaming floor configurations.

It has been proposed that gaming systems include selecting games from alarge variety of game content stored on a centralized game server forsubsequent download and play on a local terminal. Regulatory approvaland issues of security have slowed what is perceived to an inevitableshift to downloadable games at a casino. Given current technology, it isnow possible to virtually move games around the casino floor or changeparameters within the games on the game floor from a central locationwithout physically accessing the games. Downloadable gaming systems alsogive a player or casino operator the freedom to choose the game playedon a given gaming machine. Selecting a desired game from a list ofhundreds of available games may be a time-consuming task, however, andassisting the player in a choice of game through a number of metricsbased on player preferences or other factors would be highly desirable.As stated above, current downloadable gaming systems also presentchallenges to regulatory officials. For example, game integrity and/orgame license monitoring may be difficult for regulatory officials andgaming operators to monitor. Providing a system and method through whichregulators may monitor and/or control game content would be highlydesirable.

Thus, there is a need for a system and method that allows adaptablecontrol and configuration of a gaming environment. There is a need for asystem which provides for the operator or player to reconfigure one ormore gaming terminals and for a system which provides the operator withthe opportunity and flexibility to optimize the casino floor based uponvarious parameters. There is a need for a system and method wherereconfiguration commands may be paused or interrupted in the eventcertain conditions exist. There is a need for a system and method whichprovides for easy designation and reconfiguration of any terminal on thecasino floor.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Certain embodiments provide a system and method for adaptable controland configuration of a gaming environment. Certain embodiments provide agaming environment configuration system including a plurality of gamingmachines capable of executing game content for play by one or moreplayers and a configuration manager configured to receive informationregarding available games and the plurality of gaming machines. Theconfiguration manager generates one or more configurations for theplurality of gaming machines. Configuration (or reconfiguration when aterminal is already configured) may be of game content, terminalappearance, denomination or operational mode. Content relates to thegame type, theme, controls and/or secondary games, for example, to beimplemented at the terminal for play by the customer. Appearance mayinclude color (terminal, panels of the terminal, displays, etc.),background, borders, adding or subtracting displays, shape and broadlyincludes sound characteristics as well. Denomination relates to thedenomination for the game, e.g. unit wager value/value of creditswagered. Operational mode relates to whether the terminal is configuredfor regular game play, tournament play, free play, promotional play orthe like or is placed in a disabled mode such as, for example,maintenance, a tilt condition, regulatory request or order or the like.

Certain embodiments provide a graphical user interface (GUI) systemallowing an operator to configure a gaming environment. The systemincludes a map representing a layout of a gaming floor in the gamingenvironment, a game library including games available for download to agaming terminal on the gaming floor, and a configuration control capableof allowing the operator to download a game from the game library to atleast one gaming terminal on the gaming floor. In an embodiment, theconfiguration control allows the operator to change informationdisplayed on at least one gaming terminal display on the gaming floor.

The system may also include a layout editor enabling the operator toedit a layout of the gaming floor displayed on the map. Additionally,the system may include a profile manager for creating a gaming floorconfiguration and saving the configuration in a profile. Furthermore,the system may include a tournament manager for configuring tournamentplay with gaming terminals on the gaming floor.

Certain embodiments provide a method for gaming floor configuration, themethod includes selecting one or more games from a server for remoteoperation or download in a trial configuration on a gaming floor. Themethod also includes adjusting, on a trial basis, a configuration ofdevices on the gaming floor based on the one or more selected games. Themethod further includes monitoring game play in the adjusted gamingfloor configuration to generate performance data. Additionally, themethod includes analyzing the performance data from the adjusted gamingfloor configuration to provide a gaming floor configurationrecommendation.

Certain embodiments provide a method for providing suggestions toplayers in a downloadable or server-based gaming environment. The methodincludes monitoring game play, via server, by at least one of one ormore players at one or more gaming devices. The method also includesanalyzing game play data generated from the monitoring step to identifyat least one of a pattern of play and a popularity of play. The methodfurther includes providing a game play recommendation, based on the atleast one of a pattern of play and a popularity of play, to at least oneof the one or more players for play in the downloadable or server-basedgaming environment.

Certain embodiments provide a method for progressive play in a downloador server-based gaming environment. The method includes displaying, at agaming device, one or more progressives and associated games availablefor play via a gaming server. The method also includes allowing a playerto select from the one or more progressives to participate in theassociated game via the gaming server or download configurator. Themethod further includes activating the associated game for play with theselected progressive via the gaming server or download configurator.

Certain embodiments provide a method for tournament selection and playin a downloadable or server-based gaming environment. The methodincludes displaying available tournament games at a plurality of gamingdevices via a gaming server. The method also includes facilitatingselection of a tournament game from the available tournament games. Themethod additionally includes configuring, via the gaming server, aidplurality of gaming devices for tournament play with the selectedtournament game. The method further includes activating the selectedtournament game at a gaming terminal. In addition, the method includesexecuting play of the selected tournament game.

Certain embodiments provide a system providing game content in adownloadable or server-based gaming environment. The system includes aplurality of gaming devices providing game play to a plurality ofplayers. The system also includes a gaming server including a pluralityof games available for play at the plurality of gaming devices based onuser selection. The gaming server includes a configuration manager forconfiguring and managing the plurality of games for play at theplurality of gaming devices. The system further includes a graphicaluser interface allowing a user to configure the plurality of games atthe gaming server. The configuration manager provides two or more of thefollowing games for configuration of the plurality of gaming devicesbased on user selection: a) one or more games available for gaming trialon one or more of the plurality of gaming devices for a predeterminedtime period, wherein the configuration manager collects game play datafrom the gaming trial for analysis; b) one or more recommended games forplay on one or more of the plurality of gaming devices based onmonitored data identifying at least one of a pattern of play and apopularity of play of games from at least one of the plurality of gamingdevices and a plurality of monitored players; c) one or more progressiveprizes and one or more associated games to be played one or more of theplurality of gaming devices for the one or more progressive prizes, theconfiguration manager facilitating selection of a progressive prize forwhich to play and selection of an associated game to be played for achance to win the progressive prize; and d) one or more tournament gamesavailable for tournament play at the plurality of gaming devices,wherein the configuration manager configures the plurality of gamingdevices for tournament play for a predetermined time period uponselection of one of the one or more tournament games.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a casino network system used in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram for a method for configuration of agaming environment used in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a graphical user interface (GUI) capable ofconfiguring and managing a gaming floor in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts an example of a profile management interface used inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows a profile status list used in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 6 depicts a configuration options interface used in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a preferences interface used to configure GUI userpreferences in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a credit management interface used in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a coupon redemption interface used inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 depicts a tournament setup interface used in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a tournament scheduling interface used in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 shows a tournament setup options interface used in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows a tournament machine assignment interface used inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows a tournament summary used in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows an example of a graph charting gaming machine performanceused in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a new game query interface used in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates a flow diagram for a method for trial gaming floorconfiguration in a downloadable or server based gaming environment inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates a game play monitoring system used in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 illustrates a flow diagram for a method for game recommendationin a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 illustrates a progressive game play monitoring system used inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates a flow diagram for a method for tournament play in adownloadable and/or server-based gaming environment in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention.

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofcertain embodiments of the present invention, will be better understoodwhen read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose ofillustrating the invention, certain embodiments are shown in thedrawings. It should be understood, however, that the present inventionis not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in theattached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, a casino network system 100 includes a plurality ofgaming terminals 110, 120, and 130 interconnected through network 140 toa slot accounting and/or player tracking system 150 (hereinaftercollectively referring to as a player tracking system), slot floorconfiguration manager 160 and certificate manager 170. It should beunderstood that, while the present description refers to gamingterminals as “slot machines”, that gaming tables such as Blackjack, PaiGow, Baccarat, multi-terminal gaming machines such as multi-terminalroulette, Sik Bo, Poker, dice games, and others may be subject toreconfiguration where such tables are so adapted. As an example, agaming table layout may be embodied as a video display, andreconfiguration may be of a type to reconfigure the video layout tochange the game to be played at the table, bonus features, minimum andmaximum bets and the like. Thus gaming terminal as used herein includesgaming tables as well. It should also be understood that configurationor reconfiguration of a gaming terminal includes both an initialconfiguration and subsequent reconfiguration of the gaming terminal todownload and/or otherwise provide (e.g., server-based) a game and/orother functionality to a player at the terminal.

Player tracking system 150 and slot floor configuration manager 160 areconnected to database server 180 via a communication link 185, which maybe integrated with or separate from the network 140. Slot floorconfiguration manager 160 and certificate manager 170 are connected togame database server 190 via a communication link 195 which may beintegrated with or separate from network 140. In an embodiment, thecasino network system 100 may be implemented in another gamingenvironment, such as a hotel, restaurant, theater, store, airport orother venue having one or more gaming systems.

System 100 also includes a system workstation 200, connected to network140. In addition, one or more self-service kiosks 210, and/or one ormore external systems 220 may be connected to network 140. Externalsystem 220 is connected to network 140 through firewall 225, and mayinclude a player workstation in a hotel room or other location externalto the casino, for example. One or more kiosks 210 may be used tofacilitate operations such as slot ticket redemption, player card pointredemption, change and/or currency dispensation, promotion redemptionand/or issuance, advertising, information, event and/or diningreservations and/or ticketing, etc. For example, one or more kiosks 210and/or external systems 220 may used to purchase and/or view sportsscores, news, game announcements, weather, flight information, showtimes, specials, reward tickets, prize tickets, coupons, airline or showtickets, reservation confirmation, or other information, for example.Additionally a player may be able to locate his or her favorite games onthe casino floor, restaurants or other facilities and/or services at akiosk 210.

Gaming terminals 110, 120, and 130 include communications interfaces(CI) 115, 125, and 135 respectively, which communicate with network 140.In other embodiments, CI 115, 125, and 135 may instead communicate withplayer tracking system 150 via other system and/or method, such as aserial communications protocol. In an embodiment, CI 115, 125, and 135may be integrated into a game controller for gaming terminals 110, 120,and 130. Certain embodiments of a CI are described in more detail below.

Player tracking system 150 collects data from CI 115, 125, and 135 forpurposes of slot accounting, monitoring and security, and playertracking as is well known in the art. Player tracking system 150processes and stores said data in database 180. Additional informationregarding slot accounting and player tracking is described in moredetail below.

Slot floor configuration manager 160 receives information relevant toslot floor configuration management from player tracking system 150 anddatabase 180. For example, slot floor configuration manager 160 mayinclude an interface to player tracking system 150 to facilitatetransfer of information between manager 160 and tracking system 150. Inan embodiment, slot floor configuration manager 160 receives informationfrom a database separate from database 180 used by player trackingsystem 150. In an embodiment, slot floor configuration manager 160 mayreceive floor configuration information independent of player trackingsystem 150. Slot floor configuration manager 160 also may receiveinformation directly from gaming terminals 110, 120, 130. Gamingterminals 110, 120, 130 may be connected to slot floor configurationmanager 160 and/or player tracking system 150 via separate networks or acommon network, such as an Ethernet.

Slot floor configuration manager 160 processes information to determineand/or suggest configurations of gaming terminals on a gaming floor,such as a casino floor. Slot manager 160 reviews, adjusts, and approvessuggested floor configurations via system workstation 200. In anembodiment, players may be provided with an ability to select desiredgames to be played or downloaded to a terminal via CI 115, 125, and 135and/or gaming terminal 110, 120, and 130. Players may also review gameinformation or update their profiles via kiosk 210 or external system220, for example. In another embodiment the casino may have theauthority to “push” selected games to gaming terminals 110,120 and 130and the player has no ability to select or override the selection. Inanother embodiment both the casino and the player have the ability toselect fro the available games.

System 100 may also include external system 230, which is connected tocertificate manager 170 via a dedicated, secure, communications link viafirewall 235, for example. External system 230 may be a workstation in agaming regulator's office, for example. In one embodiment, gamingregulators may monitor and manage game certificates on certificatemanager 170 via external system 230. Unless required by a particularjurisdiction, the certificate manager 170 and associated equipment andfunctions may not be required.

Certificate manager 170 is configured to allow access to games to becontrolled for a given gaming environment, such as governmentalregulators or gaming operators acting in compliance with gamingregulations. The certificate manager 170 may work with a certificatedatabase to control access to the game(s) being played. For example, thecertificate database may include encoded and encrypted digitalcertificates or other authentication/license indicators that tie togames in the game database on a one-to-one basis. In an embodiment, dueto the nature of the games and gaming terminals, a game may not beplayed unless a valid certificate for that game exists in thecertificate database. In an embodiment, a certificate is also mated to avenue, such as a casino or other gaming environment, so that a game maynot be played at another venue even if the game and certificate wereelectronically duplicated and moved to another venue.

In an embodiment, a certificate may also be mated to a binary image of agame file, such that a game may not be played if the binary image ismodified. If a modification or update of a game image is a result of anauthorized action, a new certificate may be issued by a regulator beforethe game may be played. Games lacking a valid certificate may be handleddifferently in a player's game catalog interface. In an embodiment,games lacking a valid certificate may be excluded from a playerselection interface altogether. In an alternate embodiment, gameslacking a valid certificate may be excluded from certain portions of aplayer catalog and/or visibly marked with an appropriate descriptivephrase such as “Pending approval for play in this casino”.

In an embodiment, certificates may be implemented such that the numberof concurrently playing games of a given title may be limited byregulators or a game provider, for example. In an embodiment,certificates may be implemented such that a number of concurrentlyplaying games from a given game provider is similarly limited. In anembodiment, the certificate database may be implemented to facilitate atotal number of games being concurrently played at a given venue, ifregulations enforce such a limit, for example.

In an embodiment, regulators have access to the certificate database,either through an interface local to a gaming environment or through aremote interface such as a web-based interface through a dedicated andencrypted network link between the venue and the regulator. Through thisinterface, the regulator may manage the certificate database to approvegames for play or similarly revoke approval of games, for example.

In an embodiment, the casino floor configuration system 100 useshistorical data as well as stored information regarding available gamesto determine and suggest, or in certain instances command, availablegame configuration(s) or mix for the casino floor or other gamingenvironment. Such a mix may include, for example, game location(s), gamedenomination(s), game content, game appearance, terminal appearance,terminal operational mode and/or additional parameter(s) such asvolatility, return to player (RTP), etc. In an embodiment, the system100 may change a gaming environment floor configuration automatically.For example, rules, preferences, calendar-based schedules, and/orhistorical data may be used by system 100 to automatically reconfigure agaming environment. As a few examples, the denominations of games may bechanged to higher denominations for periods such as holidays andweekends where tourists or conventioneers are expected and lowerdenominations during the week for local players. Where a large influx oftourists is expected, game play may be converted from, for example,video Poker games to video slot machine games which may be more popularwith the expected demographics of the patrons. Historical data may alsobe used to control or suggest a configuration regime. Prior successfulconfigurations may be accessed and duplicated and even tied to calendarevents, e.g. reconfigure for the Christmas Holiday the same as lastChristmas. Where players are entitled to select configurations, ahistorical record may be maintained with respect to player requestedconfigurations and the same may be analyzed to set up configurations forthe casino floor.

As used herein, reconfiguration refers to an initial configuration,installation or access to a gaming terminal and/or gaming and othersoftware running on or via the gaming terminal. Additionally,reconfiguration encompasses both downloading games and/or other softwareto a gaming terminal and making games and/or other software available atthe gaming terminal (e.g., sever-based gaming).

In an embodiment, the slot floor configuration manager 160 may include aworkstation with an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, such as avisual representation of the casino floor with installed gamingterminals 110, 120, 130. For example, the workstation includes adisplay. The manager 160 controls the display to display the position ofterminals on a casino floor and to display with each terminal (or groupor banks of terminals) data or a visual reference corresponding to atleast content then resident on each terminal. For example, each terminalmay be shown in association with at least one of a number, letter,label, icon and/or other indicator. As a specific example, each gamingterminal has associated therewith a graphic icon representing gamecontent such as a representation of a unique game symbol, trademark, orother pictorial so an operator may determine at a glance a residentconfiguration of each terminal. Using a data input device such as amouse, keyboard, remote control or touch screen, the operator may entera prompt at a selected icon whereupon the processor is controlled todisplay further details such as denomination, performance, maintenancehistory, game history, or the like. In this fashion, individualterminals or whole banks of terminals may be reconfigured in a “drag anddrop” manner. The gaming terminals 110, 120, 130 may be selectedindividually and/or in groups for configuration changes, for example. Inan embodiment, an operator and/or system may view and/or change gamingterminal 110, 120, 130 information and/or configuration using theconfiguration manager interface. Using the floor configuration manager160, an operator may change a game available for play at a gamingterminal 110, 120, 130 and also information display via a primary and/oradditional display at gaming terminal 110, 120, 130.

In an embodiment, the system 100 may be configured to lock down portionsof a gaming environment. For example, an area of a casino floor may bedesignated as the “video poker” area. In the video poker area, operatorsmay want to allow any video poker game to be played or downloaded whiledisallowing downloading of other types of games in this area, forexample.

In another embodiment, gaming terminals in a gaming environment may beconfigured for a field trial. A field trial typically runs for 30 days,for example. Games on field trial are made available for play during thefield trial and, the slot configuration manager 160 helps ensure thatfield trial game(s) are available on a specific set of terminals.

One or more terminals or banks of terminals may be configured fortournament play or other special event, for example. When in atournament play configuration, play may be free to players. Play may bebased upon free and/or prepaid/preset credits being loaded in the game,e.g. 1000 credits, or the terminals may be configured to be enabled fora period of time for free play. In an embodiment, players pay an initialfee to “buy in” to a tournament. Participating gaming terminals are thenplaced in a “tournament mode”. In an embodiment, terminals in tournamentmode are temporarily removed from slot accounting so that meters accruedduring tournament play are not included in standard slot accounting. Inan embodiment, participating terminals are initialized to playcontinuously for “free” during the allotted tournament time period.Alternatively, a set number of credits may be allocated to aparticipating terminal for tournament play. At the end of the period,the net win of each terminal is used to measure the contestants'performance and top winners are awarded a prize. During tournament play,reconfiguration of the terminals involved may be paused. Additionally,one or more displays on participating gaming terminals may displayinformation and/or graphics related to tournament play. An example oftournament play is described in further detail in U.S. Pat. No.6,039,648, which is herein incorporated by reference.

In an embodiment, a secondary screen (such as a secondary screen in atop box of an electronic gaming machine) may be used with a gamingterminal to display tournament information, such as tournament standingsand statistics. The tournament statistics screen may display informationsuch as tournament leaders and point standings, time remaining in thetournament, player standing with respect to the leaders (such as placein the tournament, points, and/or a number of points separating theplayer from the closest competition), and/or other information. At theconclusion of the tournament, the secondary display shows tournamentwinners, prize(s) won, and/or other information, for example.

In an embodiment, a screen displaying game identification informationand/or graphics may be modified to display tournament identificationinformation and/or graphics. In an embodiment, the system 100 may beused for additional operational modes including taking a terminal out ofservice for maintenance, configuration and/or in case of a tiltcondition (malfunction), for example.

In an embodiment, a gaming terminal may include one or more configurablebuttons, such as NKK™ Smartswitches™, touchscreen button deck, orconfigurable button panel. The face of each button may include anenabling display of the button function. Colors may vary as well, forexample. The buttons may be programmed by the slot configuration manager160, workstation 200, and/or automatically based on gameinformation/configuration, for example. For example, as a game isselected, reconfigured and/or replaced at a gaming terminal 110, 120,130, the buttons may be programmed, displayed or enabled to accommodatefunctionality of the game.

Games may be defined by a “slot type,” for example. Parameters that makeup a slot type may include game title, denomination, return to player,style of game and/or bonus feature(s), for example. A particular gamemay be available in denominations from 5 cents to $100, for example. Inan embodiment, a full range of denominations may not be applicable toall areas of a casino floor. For example, higher denomination games mayonly be available in a high limit area. One slot type for a particulartitle may be created for denominations from $5 to $100 for use in highlimit gaming, and another slot type may be created for denominations of5 cents to 25 cents for other parts of a floor. The system 100 mayselect from the available slot types for a particular title when makingrecommendations to the slot manager. In an alternative embodiment, apredetermined protocol may be established for certain areas of thecasino floor such as, for example, a High Limit area. In this instance,if an operator or download routine attempts to download or makeavailable a 5 cent game into the High Limit area, the download may bepaused and an error message generated to remind the operator that thegame is inappropriate for the terminal in the High Limit area. Thus theoperator may make a conscious decision to override the high limit onlyprotocol for the terminal. Alternatively, the 5 cent download or serverrequest may be cancelled or overridden.

The system 100 may function with the player tracking system 150 todetermine player profiles. The system 100 may use player profileinformation to suggest, offer, include and/or exclude players fromcertain games or parameters, for example. Player profile information maybe used by the slot configuration manager 160 to configure or suggest aconfiguration or server based game for a gaming terminal 110, 120, 130at which a particular player is playing, for example. Additionally, thesystem 100 may suggest games to a player based on factors such ashistorical data, game rating, game availability, player preference,player ranking, player access, player credit, newest games, most populargames based on statistical tracking of game play, most popular gamesbased on customer ratings and reviews, events in the vicinity of thegaming terminal, etc. For example, the system 100 may offer selectedgames to a player which other players have like based upon the presentgame.

In an embodiment, the system 100 provides players with an ability toselect games from a list extracted from an entire suite of gamesavailable to the system such that the extracted list of games is basedupon games preferred by a player including other games of similarcharacter to games appealing to that player based on player history. Inan embodiment, a game may include different outcomes according tochoices made by a player at various points during play of the game.

In an embodiment, the system 100 provides operators with an ability toselect games to be available for play on one or more gaming terminals.Games may be available to an operator based on authorization, gamingjurisdiction, casino affiliation, account information, available credit,etc. An operator may purchase or activate games for a certain amount ofmoney or credits or via coupon from a game provider, for example. Forexample, a casino slot floor operator may download or make availablegames for gaming terminals on the casino floor using available creditsin his or her account. If an operator or gaming environment's accountbalance is low or has been exceeded, an operator may add credits to anaccount. For example, an operator may access a web site or otherinterface or click a button or tab to “buy” additional credits toacquire the rights/ability for the game/feature. The new game code maybe provided remotely as through an Internet connection or by a memorydevice such as a cd from which the operator can load the game. Gamesprovided by a read only memory device such as a CD may require theoperator to authorize the game from the provider so the provider can (1)be sure the operator received the game, (2) log the operator in andauthorize the game, (3) confirm the game is correct for the operator'sjurisdiction and (4) if the game has a recurring revenue component placethe operator on a payment schedule.

In an embodiment, the system 100 may include a number of templatesdescribing suggested floor layouts for a given venue based on factorswell known in the industry. Templates in whole or part may be saved tothe live casino floor as desired. In an embodiment, templates may beloaded, saved, and/or modified by the slot floor configuration manager160, for example.

In an embodiment, the system 100 includes an offline experimental or“what if” mode that allows casino personnel to experiment with variousfloor configurations. For example, the system 100 may show a predictedeffect of configuration changes on a virtual floor such as by includingseveral new or additional games from a game content provider. Based uponthe performance of the games in other casinos, these “hypothetical”games could be included in a fictional floor configuration to show theoperator how overall floor performance may be enhanced. Virtual floorlayouts may then be saved and/or translated to an actual floorconfiguration as desired such as by the operator acquiring one or moresuggested games in their library.

In an embodiment, the system 100 includes an ability to reconfigure afloor configuration in response to pre-programmed events, such as timeof day, day of week (or month), certain events occurring in or aroundthe venue, and the like. For example, prior to a highly anticipatedevent, such as a Monday Night Football game or sports tournament,electronic gaming terminals outside a bar or other venue hosting aspecial event related to the game may be shifted to favor sports-mindedgames.

In an embodiment, a player uses credits to download, select, and/or playa game (on EGM credit meter, player account, and/or inserted at an EGM110, 120, 130, for example). In an embodiment, the system 100 allows oneor more players to play multiple games on one terminal simultaneously(dividing a game screen into four windows, for example, with four gamesplaying simultaneously).

In an embodiment, a plurality of games may be stored locally on a gamingterminal. Contents of a gaming terminal may be configured based on agame selected on the terminal by a player, rather than forcing adownload or server based game of a game onto the terminal to change theconfiguration. Game content may be updated on a periodic basis via anetwork and/or loaded locally at the terminal, for example.

Certain embodiments provide a plurality of features to players. Forexample, the system 100 may allow a player to search or browse in realtime for a game (by title, genre, popularity, highest jackpot, etc).While browsing, filters may be employed by the player to narrow thefield being browsed, for example. The system 100 may provide a catalogto browse games (by manufacturer, etc). The system 100 may makerecommendations based on player profiles (e.g., “Players who like thisgame also liked this game”). The system 100 may also suggest games basedon a denomination most played by a player, etc. The system 100 maysuggest most popular games (perhaps at an extra charge or tiered entry),new releases, etc. Players may also search for and download or playprogressive jackpot games which currently have the highest jackpot. Inthis fashion, the downloaded or server-based games may add to theprogressive pool causing it to grow even faster. In an embodiment,players may be allowed to access features using a player card and/oraccount. A player may be granted access to certain features based on anumber of player loyalty points, for example.

Certain embodiments allow a player to “vote” or provide feedback(ratings, etc.) for a game at a gaming terminal 110, 120, 130, kiosk, orexternal system, for example. In addition, certain embodiments providedownloadable help files or reference materials that discuss features ofa given game. Certain embodiments provide a free evaluation mode toallow players to evaluate games at no charge but with no payout for awin. The evaluation mode may be optional for a venue and may also resultin awarding coupons, discounts, reward points, or other compensation toparticipating players, for example.

The above features, as appropriate, may also be made available throughan interface such as a kiosk 210 on the casino floor or web-basedinterface external to the casino. Players may be able to accessapplicable information while away from the casino floor (for example, ina hotel room or home). The interface allows a player to learn about newgames available at the casino or read peer reviews of games prior togoing to the casino, for example. The player may add interesting gamesor other feature(s) to his or her list of “favorites” in a playerprofile for easy access while on the casino floor. In an embodiment, ifa license or certificate is available for a desired game, a player mayreserve the game at the kiosk 210 for play at a gaming terminal.Additionally, the kiosk 210 or other interface device may provideplayers with a site map or other casino information. The kiosk orweb-based interface may enable players to find out where games are onthe casino floor, jackpots and the like. For example, the kiosk 210 mayprovide a map or list of options to allow a player to locate aparticular game or type of gaming terminal. The kiosk 210 or otherinterface may also provide a player with information regarding similaror alternative products, for example.

In an embodiment, a player may return to a hotel room, home or othervenue to enter reviews of games played during a gaming session. Thecasino or other gaming environment may provide incentives for enteringsuch reviews, such by adding points to a player account or rating thereviewers themselves based on quantity and/or quality of their reviews,for example. In an embodiment, a player may be limited by the system 100to only submit reviews for games that the player has played at thegaming environment.

In an embodiment, the system 100 may facilitate charging a premium forcertain game titles based on given criteria, such as a new game,incentive bonus to game provider based on popularity, exclusivecontract, game customized to venue, etc. For example, a premium orlicense fee may be charged for popular or new games. In an embodiment,the system 100 may also facilitate tracking of a game's performance withrespect to performance warrantees offered by a game provider, forexample. The system 100 may also facilitate favored exposure for certaingame titles in game catalogs shown to players in exchange for a gameprovider paying a promotional fee or offering a discount. For example,games or other features may receive favorable exposure in playercatalogs for a fee or discount.

In an embodiment, information may be collected with respect topopularity of games and/or options within the games, for example.Information gathered may then be used to promote popular games togeneral and/or specific audiences.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram for a method 240 for configuration ofa gaming environment used in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention. First, at step 242, a gaming environment floorconfiguration is reviewed. For example, current location andconfiguration of games on the gaming terminals may be reviewed. Then, atstep 244, criteria are evaluated with respect to the current floorconfiguration. For example, historical data for a gaming environment,gaming terminal(s), and/or player may be evaluated automatically and/ormanually. Evaluation criteria may also include time, special event, gameavailability, location, schedule, and/or other data, for example.

Next, at step 246, a new floor configuration is determined. That is, anew floor configuration may be determined automatically and/or manuallybased at least in part on the criteria and other data evaluated in step244. A new floor configuration of available games may be determinedusing a template, by selecting game(s) from an available library, etc.In an embodiment, a configuration management system suggests a new floorconfiguration to an operator based on historical data for the floor andother input/parameters. At a display, where the current configuration isshown by icons or other reference indicators or banners in associationwith the terminals shown by the display, a suggested reconfiguration maybe shown by a ghost icon, image or banner in association with theterminals for a period of time in advance of the reconfiguration, forexample. Then, at step 248, the floor configuration is adjusted. Thefloor configuration may be adjusted automatically, an operator may beprompted to adjust the configuration, and/or manual adjustment by anoperator may be facilitated. In an embodiment, a floor configuration maybe selected from one or more templates based on criteria and/or userinput.

In an embodiment, one or more changes to a floor configuration may bescheduled in the system 100. For example, an operator may schedule a newfloor configuration to be implemented at a certain time and/or for acertain time period. Thus, gaming terminals may be configured withcertain games and/or in certain modes for one time period and withdifferent games and/or in different modes for another time period. Forexample, an operator may schedule a casino to be configured to operatein a tournament mode beginning at 2:00 am the following day. A casinofloor may be configured with certain games during a weekend and othergames during the week, for example. Certain games may be played ongaming terminals during the day and others during the night, forexample. Thus, certain embodiments enable advanced configuration andscheduling of gaming terminals in a gaming establishment.

It should be noted that when reconfiguration is commanded, the system100 is preferably configured to include several override conditionswhich pause or prevent the reconfiguration. For example, where a playeris playing a game, reconfiguration of the terminal may be paused ordelayed until play is discontinued for a period of time, e.g. 10minutes, to prevent interruption of play. Other conditions may be amaintenance condition such as where the terminal is opened for serviceor there is a malfunction, or play has been suspended but credits remainor payment of a jackpot is pending. Also, as stated above, conditionssuch as designated high limit areas may prevent the download of certaingames to those locations. Tournament play may delay reconfigurationuntil the tournament has ended, for example. The operator may alsoconfigure and input conditions which would block or encourage certaindownloads, e.g. only certain games and the casino entrance to attractplayers, a percentage of the floor must remain video Poker, maintain acertain number of Blackjack tables because of the number of dealers onshifts and the like. In an embodiment, an operator may override aconfiguration that has been suggested for automatic implementation bythe configuration system.

At step 250, in the embodiments where a player may selectconfigurations, a configuration (game content, terminal configuration,operational mode) is selected by a user at a gaming terminal. In anembodiment, a user may select from a plurality of games available at thegaming terminal. In another embodiment, a user may initiate a singlegame available at the gaming terminal. In an embodiment, a user maydownload a game from a database or collection of games for play at agaming terminal.

Then, at step 252, a certificate or other authentication indicatorassociated with the game is verified. For example, a certificateassociated with a game at a gaming terminal or other gaming console maybe compared with a certificate database for the gaming environment toauthenticate the game running at the gaming terminal. In an embodiment,a player may also be authenticated to verify the player's access and/orauthorization to play the game. For example, certain games may be madeaccessible to adults and/or to members of a casino's players club orother group. Certification may or may not be required depending upon theconfiguration of the system 100 and regulatory requirements, forexample.

At step 254, the game is played. During play, the system 100, acting asa slot accounting system, monitors performance of the game, such ascoin-in (amount wagered), jackpots paid (amount paid out), ormaintenance events. The system 100, and more particularly the playertracking system server 150, tracks player identification if the playerhas logging in to be tracked. Next, at step 256, a player or other usermay generate feedback for a game, gaming terminal, and/or gamingenvironment. For example, a player may complete a survey at a gamingterminal, a kiosk, and/or a hotel room evaluating a game played and/oranother aspect of the player's experience in a gaming environment. In anembodiment, feedback from a player is referenced in configuration of agaming environment floor. Additionally, player preference data and otherfeedback may be stored for analysis and creation of player-based and/orfloor-based profiles and/or templates. Furthermore, game and/orperformance data may be compared to floor content to determine profiles,templates and/or recommendations for floor reconfiguration, for example.

In an embodiment, game(s), gaming terminal(s), and/or gamingenvironment(s) may be configured in an experimental or field trial modeto demonstrate and/or test one or more games and/or features. One ormore games, gaming terminals, and/or gaming environments may beprogrammed for special events and/or schedules. Game(s), gamingterminal(s), and/or gaming environment(s) may be configured to acceptdifferent fees and/or offer different payback/reward for differentgames, gaming terminals, and/or gaming environments. Criteria set by anoperator and/or system may impact programming, fees, and/or payback, forexample. In an embodiment, portion(s) of a gaming floor may be “lockeddown” or configuration restricted based on a schedule, game(s) played,and/or operator input.

In certain embodiments, for example, one or more games may be selectedfrom a library, such as a vendor website, and imported into theconfiguration system 100. For example, an operator may visit a gamingvendor's website to view and download game(s) for hypothetical or testconfiguration on their gaming floor or virtual gaming floor model.Alternatively and/or in addition, a dedicated portal or connection to alibrary of games may be made available through the system 100 foroperator review and download.

An operator may then determine a hypothetical affect the one or more newgames may have on a gaming floor, for example. Alternatively or inaddition, the operator may use the system 100 to preview the new game(s)for a predetermined trial period. For example, the game(s) may include apreview period that may time out and end the game. That is, acomputer-aided model may be used to simulate a gaming floorconfiguration and performance, and/or one or more game(s) may be madetemporarily available on a gaming floor for players to try. Thus, one ormore games may be tested or previewed on an actual gaming floor and/or avirtual model of a gaming floor, for example.

In certain embodiments, for a hypothetical gaming floor configuration,each game may have a performance statistic measured in one or more ways,such as empirically determined, handle/coin drop data determined, and/orotherwise determined, performance data. The performance data is used bythe configurator system 100 (e.g., the configuration manager 160) toconfigure the gaming floor. Where the floor is hypothetically configuredwith new game(s), hypothetical floor performance can be determined basedon one or more metrics and/or trends, for example. Where the games areactually downloaded to gaming terminals for play by players, actualperformance can be measured.

In certain embodiments, the configurator system 100 may be used to viewone or more hypothetical combinations of game(s) already installed onthe gaming floor under different conditions. For example, hypotheticalcombinations of new and/or existing game(s) may be created based on oneor more criteria such as day of the week, hour of the day, time of theyear, special event, and the like. Simulated predictions and/orhypothetical configurations may be generated on an ongoing basis so thatan operator may determine an efficient gaming floor configuration overtime, for example. In certain embodiments, various optimizationtechniques may be used to optimize or improve a gaming floorconfiguration with new and/or existing game(s).

FIG. 17 illustrates a flow diagram for a method 1700 for trial gamingfloor configuration in a downloadable or server based gaming environmentin accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. At step 1710,one or more games are selected for hypothetical or trial configurationof a gaming floor. One or more games may be downloaded and/or providedvia server, for example. At step 1720, a gaming floor configuration isadjusted based on the one or more new games. For example, the gamingfloor configuration may be manually adjusted by an operator and/orautomatically adjusted according to a template or other trialspecification.

At step 1730, the adjusted gaming floor configuration is tested. Forexample, the adjusted gaming floor configuration may be provided togaming patrons for live play. The adjusted gaming floor configurationmay be provided to a closed group of testors for restricted evaluation,for example. The adjusted gaming floor configuration may be virtualsimulated using historic, demographic and/or other data, for example.

At step 1740, performance data is generated from use of the adjustedgaming floor configuration. Data may be generated from actual and/orsimulated play, for example. At step 1750, performance data is analyzed.Performance data, such as game play data, winning percentage data andthe like, from the adjusted gaming floor configuration may be comparedto performance data from previous gaming floor configuration(s) and/orone or more industry and/or location benchmarks, for example. The gamingfloor configuration may be restored and/or further adjusted, forexample, based on analysis of performance data and/or other operatorpreference.

In an embodiment, the system 100 may be integrated and/or associatedwith a casino management system, such as a progressive managementsystem. An example of a progressive management system is describedfurther in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/059,479, filed on Feb.16, 2005, which is herein incorporated by reference. The casino managerfacilities player tracking, slot accounting, game configuration, andbonusing, for example, in the system 100. The casino manager, such as anOASIS™ casino management system, may also facilitate promotions, ticketgeneration, marketing, reporting, crediting, and communication betweenplayers, gaming employees, and the system 100, for example. The casinomanager may be used for game configuration and modification for gamingterminals, for example. The casino manager helps to provide centralizedmanagement of a gaming environment, such as one or more casinos.Examples of gaming networks may be found in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 10/938,351 (filed Sep. 10, 2004), Ser. No. 10/938,103 (filed Sep. 102004), and Ser. No. 10/935,514 (filed Sep. 7, 2004), which are hereinincorporated by reference.

A management system may allow authorized users to configure games and/orprogressive links/levels, including adding and removing games and/orprogressive links/levels, meters, and/or setting jackpot reset amountsand rate of progression, for example. Reports, such as accounting,diagnostic and administrative reports, may also be generated.Information may be displayed at a remote terminal, gaming terminaldisplay, overhead display, and/or other display, for example. One ormore databases may be accessed to aid in report generation, gameconfiguration, and/or other system adjustment, for example.

Additionally, a management system may facilitate player tracking, slotaccounting, game configuration, and bonusing, for example, in a gamingenvironment. A gaming manager, such as an OASIS™ casino managementsystem, may also facilitate promotions, ticket generation, marketing,reporting, crediting, and communication between players, gamingemployees, and the system 100, for example. The gaming manager may beused for game configuration and modification for gaming terminals. Thegaming management system helps to provide centralized management of agaming environment, such as one or more casinos.

A gaming environment may operate using a multi-tiered architecture thatincludes a number of software layers including one or more applications,an application program interface (API), and an operating system. Theapplications provide a number of different services, includingaccounting services, player tracking services, progressive gameservices, browsing services, cashless play services, etc. Theapplications may be written in various languages including, for example,C#, Java, or SQL. The operating system, for example, is a Windows® brandoperating system which provides conventional functions.

Gaming terminals may be implemented, for example, as slot machines,video poker machines, video roulette machines, and the like. Gamingterminals may be located in a local gaming environment, such as acasino, and/or a multi-site gaming environment, such as a plurality ofnetworked casinos. Gaming terminals may be used to play a first gameand/or multiple games employing one or more rewards.

A gaming environment may include a progressive server or other gamingserver capable of storing input data for gaming terminals and outputdata from gaming terminals in a central database. In an embodiment, acentral processing unit (CPU) operates through a network interface andcommunication lines to enable communication with local data processingunits. Local data processing units may be used to divide gamingterminals into groups. Using a group-based architecture, transactiondata from each group of games may be temporarily stored in the dataprocessing units. The units may be structured so that the processingunits include sufficient capacity and speed to accommodate datagenerated by the games. Therefore, system performance may be improvedand data integrity may be preserved in the event of a network or servererror.

Processing units may also be designed to store data from database(s)that may be used by gaming terminals. Such data may be readily availablefor use by the games even if networks are disabled or if a server isdisabled temporarily. As a result of these features, a gaming facilitymay remain operational even if some of its networks or a gaming servermalfunctions.

In an embodiment, one or more progressive games or amounts may befacilitated using one or more progressive links and/or one more levelswithin one or more links. A progressive link includes one or more gamingterminals contributing to one or more progressive amounts eligible for awin on any of the linked gaming terminal(s). A progressive link mayinclude one or more levels or accumulating amounts. The progressivelinks may be running at one or more gaming environments, such as one ormore casinos. One or more banks of gaming terminals in one or moregaming environments may be shut down for a variety of reasons. Forexample, terminal(s) may be shut down permanently or temporarilyinactivated due to time of day, maintenance, time-limited bonusing,retiring a game or terminal, reconfiguring a game or terminal, etc. Afloor configuration system may be used to manage and adjust one or moreprogressive links and/or banks of gaming terminals.

In an embodiment, progressive games or other promotions may beconfigured using a progressive server, slot management system, remotedevice, such as a hand held device or off-site input device, or othersystem, for example. In an embodiment, multiple controllers may beconnected to a suite of gaming products. For example, a network ofgaming systems may include progressive links configured into tieredgroups, such as single site, statewide, interstate, and/or multinationalgroups. In an embodiment, if one or more links or levels in a multi-siteprogressive is off-line, players at gaming terminals on an off-line ordisabled link may be informed that the terminals are not currentlyparticipating in the progressive or may be disabled until the link isagain functional. Additionally, in an embodiment, participants in bothgaming and non-gaming activities may contribute to and/or win prizesfrom progressive links. For example, promotions offered at restaurantsand theatres, as well as electronic gaming terminals connected to aprogressive link, may offer a chance to win a progressive prize.

In certain embodiments, game play in a gaming environment may bemonitored by an operator and/or external system. Game play may bemonitored within a single gaming environment and/or across multiplegaming environments (e.g., multiple casinos), for example. Game play maybe monitored at a single gaming terminal, a bank of gaming terminals, agaming floor of gaming terminals, multiple gaming floors of gamingterminals, etc. Game play may be monitored by software and/or hardwarein a gaming terminal, for example. Game play may be monitored bysoftware and/or hardware in an external system in communication with agaming terminal, for example.

A system may monitor a variety of game play-related information, such asone or more of game selection, frequency of play, consistency of play,most recent play, coin in and/or coin out percentages, etc. In certainembodiments, a system may be configured to monitor a particular playerand/or group of players. Based on games played by the player(s), thesystem may provide suggestions to the player(s) of other games they mayenjoy playing. Suggestions may be presented based on a manual and/orautomated analysis of game play-related information, for example.

For example, in a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment inwhich players can choose games, the system can track players and theirdownloads to determine popular games and game families. Data may beanalyzed to determine players that play an “X” game also routinely orstatistically play a “Y” game. Based upon this data, the system can makerecommendations to players as to other games they may enjoy.

For example, as shown in FIG. 18, a game play monitor 1810 monitors gameplay data from a plurality of gaming terminals 1820-23. Game play datamay be separate from and/or integrated with data generated for playertracking and/or accounting purposes, for example. Game play data may berecorded at a particular time and/or as an aggregate over time, forexample. Game play data is analyzed by the game play monitor 1810 and/orother external system to identify one or more patterns, probabilitiesand/or other statistic(s) from the game play data. Based on game playdata analysis, the game play monitor 1810 and/or other external systemprovides one or more game play recommendations to a player 1830.

Alternatively and/or in addition, the game play monitor 1810 mayseparately monitor game play data for each of the gaming terminals1820-23. Game play recommendation(s) may then be made separately foreach of gaming terminals 1820-23. In another embodiment, the game playmonitor 1810 may monitor game play data for a particular player 1830.Game play recommendation(s) may then be provided to the player 1830based on his or her playing habits and/or interests.

In certain embodiments, new games may be recommended to players fortrial and/or regular play based on game play data, for example. Incertain embodiments, a player may be allowed to provide one or morepreferences, interests and/or other data to aid in providing game playrecommendations to the player. As described above, game recommendationsmay be made in conjunction with data from a player tracking system, forexample.

Game recommendation(s) may be provided in a variety of ways. Forexample, a display integrated with, connected to and/or positioned neara gaming terminal may display a graphical and/or video message or anactivation feature for a suggested and/or new game. As another example,an audio message may alert a player to a game. In certain embodiments, agame recommendation and/or new game may automatically be activated at agaming terminal. A player may receive an electronic message, such as anemail or cellular phone text message, recommending a game.

FIG. 19 illustrates a flow diagram for a method 1900 for gamerecommendation in a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environmentin accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. At step 1910,game play of one or more players (and/or gaming terminals) is monitored.For example, game play may be monitored via a player tracking systemand/or other player card or identification-based system, gaming terminaltracking system and/or external monitoring system, for example.

At step 1920, monitored game play data is processed to identify one ormore popular and/or otherwise recommended games. For example, game playdata may be aggregated and compared to a certain threshold to identifyone or more popular games. Game play data may be combined with one ormore other criteria to identify game recommendation(s) for a player, alocation, a type of gaming terminal, etc. Jurisdictional and/orregulatory criteria may also be a factor in game recommendation, forexample.

At step 1930, one or more game play recommendations are provided. Gameplay recommendation(s) may be provided to a player, a gaming terminal, abank of gaming terminals, a gaming floor, a group of gaming floorsand/or other group, for example. Game play recommendation(s) may beprovided automatically and/or made available for player access andselection, for example.

FIG. 3 illustrates a graphical user interface (GUI) 300 capable ofconfiguring and managing a gaming floor in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention. The GUI 300 may work in conjunction with agaming floor configuration system, such as the floor configurationmanager 160. The GUI 300 depicts a plurality of gaming terminals 305,such as electronic gaming machines, available on the gaming floor. Thegaming terminals are organized in banks 310. The GUI 300 also depicts aplurality of table games 330. Each gaming terminal is associated withone or more indicators 320-321. Each bank 310 is associated with anindicator 323. An identifier and game information are displayed for eachgaming terminal 305 on the GUI 300. Available games for allocation aredisplayed in the game library 340. The GUI 300 further includes amenu/tool bar 350 providing a user with viewing, editing and reportingoptions, for example. The GUI 300 further includes a status bar 360.

The GUI 300 allows a user to view and modify games and activityoccurring on a gaming floor, such as a casino floor. The GUI 300includes one or more configuration controls to enable an operator todownload games to gaming terminals 305 and/or execute otherreconfigurations, for example. Using the GUI 300, an operator may selectamong available games and enable games on one or more gaming terminal305 and/or banks 310 of gaming terminals 305. For example, an authorizeduser may select among games available under categories such as premiumslots, hot slots, and traditional favorites, at game library 340. Usingthe menu bar 350, the GUI 300 allows a user to download or makeavailable new games and/or provide additional credits topurchase/license games, for example. The GUI 300 may be used toconfigure and/or select one or more profiles for gaming floor layout andmanagement, for example. Reports may also be generated for the gamingfloor using the GUI 300. Tournament play may be configured and/ormonitored using the GUI 300. The GUI 300 may be used to manage one ormore gaming environments and/or gaming floor layouts.

The GUI 300 may be implemented in a variety of ways. Instead of and/orin addition to the embodiments described above, the GUI 300 may also beimplemented in a menu-based format listing available games, gamingterminals, configuration options, reporting options, scheduling options,regulatory information, etc. For example, a table of gaming terminalsmay be displayed for an operator of a casino gaming floor. The table maydisplay terminal name or ID, terminal status, current game,denomination, maximum lines, etc. Available game icons and/or names mayalso be provided. A user may “click on” or otherwise select one or moregaming terminals and a game to download and/or provide at the selectedterminal(s). A menu or set of options may then be presented to theoperator to configure the game (e.g., max lines, denomination, etc.). Inan embodiment, an email or other message may be sent to the operatorafter the game has been downloaded and/or provided to players at thegaming terminal(s).

Gaming terminals may be organized in one or more groups. A terminal maybelong to one or more groups. Games may be downloaded and/or provided toone or more groups.

In certain embodiments, games may be downloaded to a gaming terminal inthe background as someone is playing a game at the gaming terminal. Atan appropriate time, the gaming terminal may then switch to the newgame. The operator may set conditions for a switch or reconfiguration,and the system checks the conditions between switching/reconfiguring thegaming terminal.

The GUI 300 may provide a scheduling engine allowing an operator toschedule a task. A task involves a collection of steps, such asdownload/make available to a terminal, download/make available to agroup, run a report, notify user, notify group, etc. A schedule is atime or a repeating time to run the steps in the task. Multiple stepsand/or multiple tasks may be executed in a schedule to automatereconfiguration and other actions.

In certain embodiments, the GUI 300 may also provide regulatoryinformation. For example, the GUI 300 may provide a list or otherdisplay of executable code files on each component of the system andinformation about the executable files. Information may include name,build version, hash value, etc. A regulator may view game and machineinformation via the display. In certain embodiments, clicking on orotherwise selecting a gaming terminal provides the operator with currentproperties of the terminal, such as hash value, IP address, game, maxlines, max bet, payout, value per coin, value per credit, downloadhistory, upcoming downloads, MAC address, machine status, machine ID,activation time, machine lock, etc. In certain embodiments, an operatormay calculate a new hash value for an executable file at a gamingterminal via the GUI 300.

The GUI 300 may also provide an operator with reporting capability. Forexample, the system may generate an audit trail, download and/or othergame play history, user access, user groups, machine listing, parameterlisting, etc. An operator may also manage users and/or groups accessingthe GUI 300 system. One or more users may be assigned to one or moregroups, and permissions may be assigned to users and/or groups.

FIG. 4 depicts an example of a profile management interface 400 used inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The profilemanagement interface 400 may be accessed from a menu or button in theGUI 300, for example. The interface 400 provides a list of profiles andallows an authorized user to add, remove and/or configure one or moreprofiles. A user may configure and save a profile to define a layout ofgames and/or other configuration information on a gaming floor. In anembodiment, the profile interface 400 provides default as well ascustomizable settings for one or more profiles. The interface 400 allowsa user to assign an identifier to a profile and select a date and timefor a floor profile configuration to begin. In an embodiment, theinterface 400 allows a user to set a recurring time for implementationof a profile.

FIG. 5 shows a profile status list 500 used in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. The profile status list 500identifies available profiles and a schedule status for each of theprofiles, as shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 depicts a configuration options interface 600 used in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. The interface 600 may beavailable to a user via a menu option in the GUI 300, for example. Theconfiguration interface 600 allows an authorized user to configure agame for a gaming floor. A user may configure a game denomination, anumber of lines available for game play, a maximum number of credits tobe bet, and/or a game variation percentage, for example. The interface600 may allow an operator to check whether sufficient credits remain ona user's account to allow a game to be enabled at one or more gamingterminals. In an embodiment, a banner message, such as “NEW” or otheradvertisement, may be highlighted on a gaming display, such as a primaryor secondary display for a gaming terminal, using the interface 600.

In an embodiment, a gaming display, such as a top LCD display or “glass”and/or a bottom display or “glass” on a gaming terminal, may bedynamically modified or configured to display content, such as imagesand/or text. One or more displays may be configured to display a primarygame, a secondary game, one or more pay tables, and/or text/graphics.For example, game art for a game downloaded to an electronic gamingmachine may be downloaded to a top LCD display on that electronic gamingmachine. Additionally, progressive jackpot information from a linkedprogressive controller may be displayed (and updated).

In an embodiment, one or more displays on a gaming terminal may betouchscreen displays. The touchscreen may be used to display help filesor reference materials for perusal by a player, for example. Thetouchscreen may also be used to facilitate voting or feedback fromplayers. In an embodiment, a touchscreen or traditional display may beused to implement networked and/or cooperative gaming. For example, agaming terminal and display may allow players to compete against eachother and track each other's current winnings on the display.Additionally, a gaming machine and display may facilitate cooperativeplay wherein coin in or winnings for multiple players are pooled anddisplayed in an attempt to win a prize, for example.

An authorized operator may also configure preferences for the GUI 300using a preferences interface 700, as illustrated in FIG. 7. Thepreferences interface 700 may be accessed using the GUI 300, forexample. An operator may configure visual, deployment, notification,setup, and/or other preferences, for example, using the interface 700.For example, a user may configure what information is to be displayed onthe GUI 300 using the interface 700. A user may also configure how theinformation is displayed on the GUI 300.

FIG. 8 illustrates a credit management interface 800 used in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. The credit managementinterface 800 may be accessed using the GUI 300, for example. Asdescribed above, an authorized user may download additional credits toan account to pay for games and/or services. The interface 800 allows anoperator to view pricing options, credit balance, and other information.An operator may purchase additional credits for use with the GUI 300 orother system using the credit management interface 800. In anembodiment, an operator and/or gaming environment may apply one or morecoupons from a gaming supplier, machine supplier, and/or other vendorfor free and/or discount credits. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of acoupon redemption.

FIG. 10 depicts a tournament setup interface 1000 used in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. The tournament setupinterface 1000 may be accessed using the GUI 300, for example. Asdescribed above, an operator may configure tournament play using thesystem 100. The tournament interface 1000 and the GUI 300 allow anoperator to configure tournament parameters such as name, time, startingcredits, and/or other parameters.

In conjunction with configuration of a tournament, tournament schedulingmay be determined using an interface, such as tournament schedulinginterface 1100, illustrated in FIG. 11. The tournament schedulinginterface 1100 allows a tournament to start as soon as possible (e.g.,after currently-executing non-tournament games on participating gamingterminals have been completed) and/or at a certain scheduled time. Theinterface 1100 may also allow an operator to schedule an ending time fora tournament.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 12, the GUI 300 may present an operatorwith tournament setup options, such as a game selected for tournamentplay and assignment of players to gaming machines (e.g., providespecific assignments of players to gaming machines or allow players touse any gaming machine configured for the tournament). Using atournament options interface 1200, an operator may configure a varietyof options for game play of the tournament. If players are assigned tospecific machines, an interface, such as the machine assignmentinterface 1300 shown in FIG. 13 or other textual or graphical form, maybe provided to allow an operator to assign players to participatinggaming machines. Alternatively, an operator may highlight gamingterminal icons via the GUI 300 to assign participating players toterminals. After a tournament has been configured, a summary 1400 may begenerated as shown in FIG. 14. The summary 1400 may be displayed for theoperator and/or for the players participating in the tournament, forexample. In an embodiment, tournament summary information and/orinstructional information may be displayed on an overhead display in acasino or other gaming environment.

In operation, the GUI 300 may be used to manage certain aspects of agaming floor, such as a casino floor. The GUI 300 may be used to controleligible gaming terminals and view table games and both eligible andnon-eligible gaming terminals on the gaming floor. In an embodiment,only eligible gaming terminals (e.g., configurable electronic gamingmachines) may be displayed on the GUI 300. Eligible gaming terminals arecapable of receiving downloadable products or electronic configurationinformation, for example.

The GUI 300 provides a graphical map of a gaming floor and providestools for an operator to maximize floor potential by moving contentaround the floor. The GUI 300 may provide a real-time, historical,and/or time-averaged view of the floor, for example. Tools available viathe GUI 300 allow an operator to deliver content and analyzeperformance. An example of a graph charting gaming machine performanceis shown in FIG. 15. An operator may track trends, aggregate data, andperform additional analysis using the tools of the GUI 300. Preferencesavailable in the GUI 300 allow a user to configure view, data, analysis,etc. In an embodiment, data obtained via the GUI 300 may be transmittedto an accounting system for analysis. The GUI 300 may enable a user toreconfigure gaming terminals 305, enable or disable gaming terminals305, and/or lock gaming terminals 305 to prevent reconfiguration ordownload, for example.

Indicators 320, 321 may be associated with each gaming terminal 305 onthe GUI 300. In an embodiment, the indicator 320 represents adenomination of the gaming terminal 305 (e.g., a darker indicatorsignals a higher denomination). In an embodiment, the indicator 321represents a status of the gaming terminal 305 (e.g., non-play, cardedplay, non-carded play, tournament play, etc.). Indicator bands 322 areshown surrounding each bank 310 of gaming terminals 305 on the GUI 300.The indicator bands 322 indicate performance of the bank 310 (e.g., redfor bad, green for good, and/or shades of red/green).

An authorized user may view the game library 340 to peruse a list ofavailable games and configure options for each game (lines,denomination, etc.). Games may be grouped into collections, such aspremium slots, traditional favorites, and hot slots. An operator mayselect one or more gaming terminals 305 or banks 310 of gaming terminals305 using a keyboard and/or pointing device (e.g., mouse, trackball,touchpad, touch screen, stylus, etc.). The operator may then select oneor more games from the library 340 and configure or provide (e.g., in aserver based environment) the selected terminal(s) 305 and/or bank(s)310 for the selected game(s). The software and/or hardware of the gamingterminal(s) 305 is made available for the game(s). In an embodiment, thesoftware and/or hardware of a gaming terminal 305 may emulate differentchipsets based on content for display at the gaming terminal 305.

In an embodiment, the GUI 300 generates a message or alert if a game isincompatible with a gaming terminal 305. The GUI 300 may prevent anincompatible download or may disable the game on the gaming terminal 305until the incompatibility is resolved. The GUI 300 may also generatestatus messages to information an operator of a success, failure, and/orother status of a download attempt, for example. The GUI 300 may alsodisplay other indicators to apprise an operator of errors or statusupdates.

In an embodiment, the GUI 300 may also allow the operator to check foradditional games made available for download. Alternatively, the GUI 300may automatically check for game and/or system updates and alert theoperator. The GUI 300 may connect to an external server or database toretrieve a game list. The operator may access and download games on thelist. An operator may add games from the list to the game library 340.In an embodiment, the operator may preview games prior to providinggame(s) to the library 340. In an embodiment, the GUI 300 may contact aplurality of servers, media and/or databases to provide games fromdifferent sources. In an embodiment, the GUI 300 may only display gamesapproved for a relevant jurisdiction. The GUI 300 may perform a checksumor other error checking to verify that an approved product has beendownloaded to the library.

For example, FIG. 16 illustrates a new game query interface 1600 used inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The interface1600 may be used by an operator to search for new games made availablefor download or server based play. New game query interface 1600 allowsa user to search for new games based on one or more criteria. Forexample, a user may search based on date, manufacturer (e.g., AristocratTechnologies, Inc., etc.), denomination (e.g., penny games, quartergames, dollar games, multi-denominational games, etc.), number of lines(e.g., 3 line games, 5 line games, 20 line games, etc.) and/or othercriteria. The interface 1600 may allow a user to preview gamesidentified by a search as well as review information regarding thegame(s). A user may add game(s) to a game library for the gamingenvironment using the interface 1600.

The GUI 300 may display available licensing credits for a property,operator and/or customer, for example. When a game is applied to one ormore gaming terminals 305, the GUI 300 displays an associated cost anddeducts the cost from the credit balance. If a customer wishes todownload a game but lacks sufficient credits, the customer may orderadditional licensing credits directly online or via telephone, asdescribed above. The GUI 300 may provide a rate schedule per credit,which may differ per customer. A customer inputs a desired number ofcredits, an account is charged, and credits are bought. In anembodiment, a customer may input a coupon code for a discount or freecredit purchase in general or for specific game(s). Coupons may have anexpiration date. The customer may then proceed to download game(s) orother software.

In an embodiment, an operator may switch among a number of licensedgames for play at the gaming terminals 305. In an embodiment, licensingmay be associated with play of the game. For example, licensing creditsmay be consumed as a game is played. Thus, a frequently played gameresults in greater licensing cost, while an infrequently played gameresults in little licensing cost.

In an embodiment, other software and/or firmware updates may bedistributed to gaming terminals 305 via the GUI 300. Updates forprocessing software, accounting or management software, and otherutilities may be provided to gaming terminals 305 or other electronicsystems. Software may be downloaded for execution at a gamingenvironment or may be delivered via an application service providermodel. In an embodiment, customers may be billed based on usage or aflat fee, for example.

In an embodiment, deployment of a game and/or other reconfiguration of agaming terminal 305 may be implemented substantially in real-time and/ormay be scheduled. Configuration may be scheduled for gaming terminal 305idle time or following a certain interval (e.g., 5 minutes) of gamingterminal 305 idle time, for example. Configuration may also be scheduledfor a particular date and time, for example. In an embodiment, arecurring download schedule may be established. For example, a firstgame may be scheduled for download to a gaming terminal 305 for playduring weekdays, and a second game may be scheduled for download to thegaming terminal 305 for play during weekends.

As described above, the GUI 300 may facilitate tournament play on agaming floor (or multiple gaming floors). In an embodiment, specialtournament versions of a game with a higher return to player (RTP) maybe downloaded to participating gaming terminals 305 for tournament play.An operator may be able to select from available tournament versions ofgames. Players may be assigned to particular gaming terminals 305 or maycheck in using a player card. An overhead display and/or gaming terminaldisplay may show information such as a leader board, time remaining,player identification, tournament mode, celebration mode, etc. After atournament is complete, the participating gaming terminals 305 may beconfigured to exit tournament mode and resume regular operation.

A display associated or integrated with the gaming terminal 305 displaysthe primary game features for play of a game. For example, the displaymay generate a conventional slot game in which a plurality of symbolsare moved within their respective column, as if rotated, at theappropriate time in response to the user activation of the gamingterminal. The gaming terminal 305 and/or bank 310 may also include asecondary or other additional display. The additional display maydisplay player information, secondary game information, supplementalinformation, promotional information, etc. The GUI 300 may allowconfiguration of the primary and secondary displays based on the gameand configuration at the gaming terminal 305 and/or bank 310. Forexample, the primary display showing the game available for play changeswhen a game is downloaded to the gaming terminal 305. The secondarydisplay advertising the game also changes when a game is downloaded tothe gaming terminal 305.

The GUI 300 may allow a user to select one or more items displayed onthe GUI 300 using a pointing device, for example. A user may selectitems or groups of items for modification and/or information retrieval.The GUI 300 provides a menu/tool bar and may provide context-sensitivemenus for a particular profile, property, category, etc. A user mayselect a profile and/or property to configure using the GUI 300. A usermay manage multiple profiles and/or properties using the GUI 300. TheGUI 300 may allow “smart” selection according to a criterion (e.g., allgaming terminals of a certain type, all gaming terminals of a certaindenomination, all gaming terminals in a certain bank, etc.).Additionally, the GUI 300 may allow a user to select all inactive games,specify multiple criteria for selection, select all gaming terminalshaving the same configuration, all games performing poorly or well, etc.In an embodiment, an operator may click on, highlight, or position acursor over an item, such as a gaming terminal 305 or game in thelibrary 340, on the GUI 300 to retrieve information, such as name,licensing, regulatory notices, performance, etc., regarding the item.

The GUI 300 may also provide an edit layout mode. In edit layout mode, atool bar allows an operator to draw architectural elements on thegraphical map of the floor in the GUI 300. An operator may also addtextual or graphical annotations to the map, import graphics, moveobjects, etc. Thus, the GUI 300 provides an improved tool to generateand change a floor map for a gaming environment.

In an embodiment, the configurator system 100 detects an addition of agaming terminal 305 to the system network. The system 100 may inform anoperator through the GUI 300 (e.g., a pop-up box, icon or message) orother alert. Then operator may position a gaming terminal icon on thefloor map or the GUI 300 may automatically generate an icon in positionon the floor map. The configurator 100 may provide game information,denomination information, and other configuration information to the GUI300. The operator may configure the new gaming terminal using the GUI300. In an embodiment, an icon or image displayed on GUI 300representing a gaming terminal or other device may be selected by anoperator, such as by using a mouse or other pointing device. A menu mayappear via GUI 300 to allow an operator to select from a variety ofoptions available for the gaming terminal or other device. Similarly, anoperator may select a group or a plurality of gaming terminals and/orother devices for configuration and/or information retrieval.Additionally, the system 100 may detect a removal of a gaming terminalfrom the network and inform the GUI 300 and/or an operator to delete thegaming terminal from the GUI 300 map.

In an embodiment, the GUI 300 facilitates creation of one or moreprofiles. In profile mode, the GUI 300 allows a user to layout a floor,save the layout, and schedule the layout to occur at a certain date andtime (and/or a recurring layout). A profile allows an operator toreconfigure an entire floor or section of a floor. In an embodiment, anoperator may select a profile from a menu to implement as soon aspossible or based on a schedule. In an embodiment, the GUI 300 allows anoperator to manage multiple properties and multiple floors within aproperty using one interface. For example, a company may manage all ofits casino floors using one interface and one pool of licensing credits.

Certain embodiments described above may operate in conjunction with oneor more multi-site and/or local progressive games. One or moremulti-site and/or local progressive games may be configured as describedabove in one or more gaming environments, for example. One or moremulti-site and/or local progressive games may be downloaded and/orselected for play by one or more players in one or more gamingenvironments, for example.

Multi-site and local progressive games provide for jackpots to grow. Incertain embodiments, a player may select a game to participate in aprogressive via a download and/or server-based gaming system. Forexample, a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment, a playermay download and/or otherwise play a game that is configured andconnected to a progressive link.

In certain embodiments, a player may request available progressives. Adisplay identifies available progressive(s) and the game(s) that aplayer can select to download and/or play to participate in theprogressive(s), for example. A selected game is configured to integratewith the progressive (e.g., a Hyperlink® progressive, symbol-basedprogressive, etc.). A contribution to a progressive jackpot pool (orpools) associated with the progressive is taken from thedownloaded/server-based game.

FIG. 20 illustrates a flow diagram for a method 2000 for progressivegame play in a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. At step 2010,progressive link option(s) and associated game(s) are displayed to aplayer via a downloadable and/or server-based gaming system. Forexample, a gaming terminal display and/or other associated display mayprovide a graphical and/or textual listing of available progressivelink(s) and game(s) that may be played to win the progressivejackpot(s). A progressive may be a local (e.g., single-site) progressiveand/or a multi-site (e.g., multiple casinos involved) progressive, forexample.

At step 2020, a player selects a progressive and an associated game forplay. The player may be allowed to select a progressive and then selectfrom among a plurality of games to play for that progressive.Alternatively and/or in addition, the player may select a progressive,and a game associated with that progressive is automatically chosen aswell. The selected progressive is then downloaded and/or provided viaserver for play at a gaming device by the player.

At step 2030, a progressive contribution is made to the selectedprogressive prize pool based on a wager made by the player and/or othercriteria for the progressive. For example, a certain percentage of aplayer's wager is added to the progressive prize pool for the award ofthe progressive jackpot. As another example, a certain increase is madeto the progressive prize pool each time a wager is made for aprogressive game.

At step 2040, the progressive game is played by the player. That is, thegame being played for the progressive prize is actuated by the player(e.g., by making a wager, by handle pull, by button push, etc.). Aresult of the game determines or helps to determine whether aprogressive prize has been won. If a prize has been won, at step 2050,the prize is awarded. For a multi-site or wide area progressive, a prizemay be awarded to one or more players at one or more of a plurality ofparticipating gaming locations, for example.

In certain embodiments described above, eligible player(s) can accesstournament game(s) and/or join tournament(s) before appointed times viaa downloadable and/or server-based gaming system. Tournament play may berequested and scheduled for future participation via adownload/server-based system, for example. Players may be assigned toand/or request particular gaming terminals or may check in at anyterminal using a player card, for example.

In an embodiment, a tournament version of a game may be downloadedand/or made available (e.g., via a server or remote computing system) toparticipating gaming terminals for tournament play. After a tournamentis complete, the participating gaming terminals may be configured toexit tournament mode and resume regular operation (e.g., return toexecuting a regular play version of the game rather than the tournamentversion).

In certain embodiments, tournament play may be based on a certain numberof credits made available at a gaming machine in response to atournament “buy in” or registration fee. Alternatively, tournament playmay be facilitated on a per-wager basis by the player, for example.Tournament play may be configured to last for a particular period fortime before regular play resumes. Participating gaming terminals arethen placed in a “tournament mode”. At the end of the period, one ormore criteria, such as a net win of each participating terminal, is usedto measure the contestants' performance. One or more top scorers may beaward one or more prizes, for example.

In certain embodiments, tournament standings are broadcast (ormulti-cast) to gaming terminal(s) and/or player tracking module(s) fordisplay during progress of a tournament. An overhead display and/orgaming terminal display, for example, may show information such as aleader board, time remaining, player identification, tournament mode,celebration mode, etc. Additionally, one or more displays onparticipating gaming terminals may display information and/or graphicsrelated to tournament play. Tournament information may includeinformation such as tournament leaders and their point standings, playerstanding with respect to the leaders (such as place in the tournament,points, and/or a number of points separating the player from the closestcompetition), time remaining in the tournament and/or other information.At the conclusion of the tournament, the secondary display may showtournament winner(s), prize(s) won, and/or other information, forexample.

FIG. 21 illustrates a flow diagram for a method 2100 for tournament playin a downloadable and/or server-based gaming environment in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. At step 2110, a tournamentis selected in a download/server-based gaming environment. For example,a gaming terminal and/or other gaming device may present one or moreeligible players (where eligibility may be determined based on playercard/membership, gaming terminal, game play, player rank, time/date, andthe like) with one or more available tournament games for selection bythe player(s). Player(s) may then select a tournament from the displayedinterface for play.

At step 2120, a gaming terminal is configured for tournament play. Forexample, a tournament game is downloaded and/or made available for play(e.g., via a server, external memory, and/or remote computing system) ata participating gaming terminal. Alternatively and/or in addition, anexisting game may be configured and/or modified for tournament play at agaming terminal. In certain embodiments, a game is not modified fortournament play, but, rather, game outcomes are specially recorded fordetermination and award of one or more tournament prizes, for example.

At step 2130, a tournament game is played. The game is played by one ormore players at one or more locations and results are compiled, forexample. Game and/or results may be displayed at participating gamingdevices, via separate overhead displays, via websites, etc. At step2140, one or more tournament prizes are awarded. One or more prizes areawarded to one or more players based on one or more criteria, such asgame outcome, frequency of play, coin in vs. coin out, winningpercentage, etc.

Thus, certain embodiments provide an improved system and method forconfiguration of gaming terminals in a gaming environment. Certainembodiments provide a system and method that allow customization anddynamic modification by an operator. Certain embodiments provideimproved reconfiguration of gaming terminals in gaming environment tooffer a variety of games and/or other options to players. Additionally,certain embodiments improve security, regulation and reliability ofgaming terminals and access to games by players. Certain embodimentsmonitor game play, player response, and configuration changes to affectconfiguration of a gaming environment. Certain embodiments provide animproved player experience through selectable games, feedback, and/orother preferences, for example. Certain embodiments allow progressive,mystery, bonusing and other gaming content to be added to gamingterminals. Certain embodiments allow an operator to manage sign ordisplay content and configuration, as well as gaming terminal softwareand firmware content and configuration. Thus, certain embodiments allowadaptable control and configuration of a gaming environment.

While the invention has been described with reference to one or morepreferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand thatchanges may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departingfrom the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may bemade to adapt a particular step, structure, or material to the teachingsof the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it isintended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodimentdisclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments fallingwithin the scope of the appended claims.

1. A method for providing suggestions to players in a downloadable orserver-based gaming environment, said method comprising: monitoring gameplay, via server, by at least one of one or more players at one or moregaming devices; analyzing game play data generated from said monitoringstep to identify at least one of a pattern of play and a popularity ofplay; and providing a game play recommendation, based on said at leastone of a pattern of play and a popularity of play, to at least one ofsaid one or more players for play in the downloadable or server-basedgaming environment.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprisingreconfiguring at least one of said one or more gaming devices accordingto said game play recommendation.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein saidmonitoring step further comprises monitoring one or more of gameselection, frequency of play, consistency of play, most recent play,coin in percentage, and coin out percentage.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein said monitoring step further comprises monitoring game play, viaserver, by carded players at gaming devices in a predetermined gamingarea.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a game playrecommendation to one or more players not included in said one or moremonitored players.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein said game playrecommendation comprises a game play trial offered to at least one ofsaid one or more players.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein saidproviding step further comprises providing a game play recommendation,based on player preference and said at least one of a pattern of playand a popularity of play, to at least one of said one or more playersfor play in the downloadable or server-based gaming environment.
 8. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising automatically activating said gameplay recommendation at at least one of said one or more gaming devices.9. A method for progressive play in a download or server-based gamingenvironment, said method comprising: displaying, at a gaming device, oneor more progressives and associated games available for play via agaming server; allowing a player to select from said one or moreprogressives to participate in said associated game via said gamingserver; and activating said associated game for play with said selectedprogressive via said gaming server.
 10. The method of claim 9, whereinsaid activating step further comprises activating a selected game forplay with a progressive by downloading said selected game from saidgaming server to said gaming device.
 11. The method of claim 9, whereinsaid one or more progressive includes one or more single-siteprogressives and multiple-site progressives.
 12. The method of claim 9,wherein said allowing step allows the player to select a progressivefrom said one or more progressives and then selecting from among aplurality of games to play for the selected progressive.
 13. A methodfor tournament selection and play in a downloadable or server-basedgaming environment, said method comprising: displaying availabletournament games at a plurality of gaming devices via a gaming server;facilitating selection of a tournament game from said availabletournament games; configuring, via said gaming server, said plurality ofgaming devices for tournament play with said selected tournament game;activating said selected tournament game at a gaming terminal; andexecuting play of said selected tournament game.
 14. The method of claim13, wherein said configuring step further comprises configuring a gamerunning on said plurality of gaming devices for tournament play.
 15. Themethod of claim 13, further comprising the steps of: awarding a prizefrom said selected tournament game; and reconfiguring said plurality ofgaming devices to resume normal game play following conclusion of saidselected tournament game.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein saidselected tournament game concludes following a predetermined period oftime.
 17. The method of claim 13, wherein said selected tournament gameis requested and scheduled for future participation.
 18. The method ofclaim 13, wherein said selected tournament game is downloaded to saidplurality of gaming devices from said gaming server.
 19. The method ofclaim 13, wherein said selected tournament game is executed at saidplurality of gaming devices via said gaming server.
 20. A systemproviding game content in a downloadable or server-based gamingenvironment, said system comprising: a plurality of gaming devicesproviding game play to a plurality of players; a gaming server includinga plurality of games available for play at said plurality of gamingdevices based on user selection, said gaming server including aconfiguration manager for configuring and managing said plurality ofgames for play at said plurality of gaming devices; and a graphical userinterface allowing a user to configure said plurality of games at saidgaming server, said configuration manager providing two or more of thefollowing games for configuration of said plurality of gaming devicesbased on user selection: a) one or more games available for gaming trialon one or more of said plurality of gaming devices for a predeterminedtime period, wherein said configuration manager collects game play datafrom the gaming trial for analysis; b) one or more recommended games forplay on one or more of said plurality of gaming devices based onmonitored data identifying at least one of a pattern of play and apopularity of play of games from at least one of said plurality ofgaming devices and a plurality of monitored players; c) one or moreprogressive prizes and one or more associated games to be played one ormore of said plurality of gaming devices for said one or moreprogressive prizes, said configuration manager facilitating selection ofa progressive prize for which to play and selection of an associatedgame to be played for a chance to win said progressive prize; and d) oneor more tournament games available for tournament play at said pluralityof gaming devices, wherein said configuration manager configures saidplurality of gaming devices for tournament play for a predetermined timeperiod upon selection of one of said one or more tournament games. 21.The system of claim 20, wherein said user comprises a casino operator.22. The system of claim 20, wherein said user comprises a player at oneof said plurality of gaming devices.
 23. The system of claim 20, whereinsaid configuration manager provides one or more games for play at saidplurality of gaming devices via downloading of said one or more gamesfrom said gaming server to said plurality of gaming devices.
 24. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein said configuration manager provides one ormore games for play at said plurality of gaming devices via server-basedexecution of said one or more games from said gaming server to saidplurality of gaming devices.
 25. The system of claim 20, wherein saidconfiguration manager reconfigures artwork and displays at saidplurality of gaming machines based on a game selected by said user forplay at said plurality of gaming machines.
 26. The system of claim 20,wherein said plurality of players at said plurality of gaming machinescomprise players having player cards that are carded in at saidplurality of gaming machines.